Japanese Castle Explorer

by Daniel O'Grady

       
Strongholds of the Samurai: Japanese Castles 250-1877 Castles of the Samurai: Power and Beauty

Nakagusuku Castle

中城城
Nakagusuku Castle is classified as a mountain castle, and is located in Okinawa Prefecture It is associated with the Eiso clan. Dates in use: 14C - 1548.

A local lord named Amawari was given permission to attack the lord of Nakagusuku, Lord Gosamaru, because the Ryukyu king believed him to be a threat. The supposed threat was in fact a deception & after Gosamaru committed suicide, the king destroyed Amawari.

Timeline

Late 14C The castle was built.
1548 The castle was abandoned.
2000 Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Okinawa's other significant Gusuku sites.

Historical recognition

SiteNational Historic Site
SiteUNESCO World Heritage Site